Controlling functions of wearable cardiac defibrillation system

ABSTRACT

A Wearable Cardiac Defibrillator (WCD) system is configured to be worn by a patient who carries a mobile communication device. The mobile communication device has a user interface that is configured to enable the patient to enter wireless inputs. The WCD system includes a communication module that is configured to establish a local comlink with the mobile communication device. The WCD system also includes a tethered action unit that has a user interface configured to enable the patient to enter action inputs. The WCD system can perform some of its functions in response to the action inputs or to the wireless inputs. Since the wireless inputs can be provided from the mobile communication device instead of the action unit, the patient is less likely to attract attention when entering them, and thus exhibit better compliance.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims priority from U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/000,404, filed on May 19, 2014, the disclosureof which is hereby incorporated by reference.

This patent application is a Continuation-In-Part of co-pending U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/454,517, filed on Aug. 7, 2014, which isa Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/959,876, filedAug. 6, 2013, which claims the benefit of priority of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 61/768,897, filed on Feb. 25, 2013, and U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/682,143, filed on Aug. 10,2012, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/706,697, filedon Sep. 27, 2012, the contents of all of which are incorporated hereinby reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

When people suffer from some types of heart arrhythmias, the result maybe that blood flow to various parts of the body is reduced. Somearrhythmias may even result in a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). SCA canlead to death very quickly, e.g. within 10 minutes, unless treated inthe interim.

Some people have an increased risk of SCA. People at a higher riskinclude individuals who have had a heart attack, or a prior SCA episode.A frequent recommendation is for these people to receive an ImplantableCardioverter Defibrillator (“ICD”). The ICD is surgically implanted inthe chest, and continuously monitors the person's electrocardiogram(“ECG”). If certain types of heart arrhythmias are detected, then theICD delivers an electric shock through the heart.

After being identified as having an increased risk of an SCA, and beforereceiving an ICD, these people are sometimes given a wearable cardiacdefibrillator (“WCD”) system. A WCD system typically includes a harness,vest, or other garment that the patient is to wear. The WCD systemincludes a defibrillator and electrodes, coupled to the harness, vest,or other garment. When the patient wears the WCD system, the externalelectrodes may then make good electrical contact with the patient'sskin, and therefore can help determine the patient's ECG. If a shockableheart arrhythmia is detected, then the defibrillator delivers theappropriate electric shock through the patient's body, and thus throughthe heart.

It is sometimes emotionally challenging to wear a WCD system. If othersbecome aware of the WCD system, it draws unwanted attention to thepatient. Others may become aware of it from how it protrudes from thepatient's clothes. Even when not, some prior art WCD systems have acustom action unit with a user interface, through which a patient isexpected to interact with the WCD system. The attention can be coupledwith curiosity, since a WCD system is a rather unusual device. Theattention can be embarrassing enough to the point where a patient mightactually forego wearing their WCD system, thus diminishing compliance.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The present description gives instances of Wearable CardiacDefibrillator (WCD) systems, storage media storing programs, andmethods, the use of which may help overcome problems and limitations ofthe prior art.

In embodiments, a Wearable Cardiac Defibrillator (WCD) system isconfigured to be worn by a patient who carries a mobile communicationdevice. The mobile communication device has a user interface that isconfigured to enable the patient to enter wireless inputs. The WCDsystem includes a communication module that is configured to establish alocal comlink with the mobile communication device. The WCD system alsoincludes a tethered action unit that has a user interface configured toenable the patient to enter action inputs. The WCD system can performsome of its functions in response to the action inputs or to thewireless inputs. Since the wireless inputs can be provided from themobile communication device instead of the action unit, the patient isless likely to attract attention when entering the action inputs, andthus exhibit better compliance.

In embodiments, a Wearable Cardiac Defibrillator (WCD) system includes asupport structure that is configured to be worn by the patient. A firstelectronics module is configured to be coupled to the support structuresuch that, when the support structure is worn by the patient, the firstelectronics module is substantially located at the lumbar region of thepatient. This way, the support structure is less discernible to others,and the patient is less demotivated from wearing it.

These and other features and advantages of this description will becomemore readily apparent from the Detailed Description, which proceeds withreference to the associated drawings in which:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram of components of a sample wearable cardiacdefibrillator (WCD) system, made according to embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing sample components of an externaldefibrillator, such as the one belonging in the system of FIG. 1, andwhich is made according to embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a sample allocation of access of functionsaccording to embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a diagram of a sample action unit with a user interfacerequesting an action input according to embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a sample mobile communication device with a userinterface requesting a wireless input according to embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a sample allocation of access of functionsaccording to embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for illustrating methods according to embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a sample allocation of access of functionsaccording to embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for illustrating methods according to embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a diagram for showing separable embodiments of WCD systems.

FIG. 11A shows sample components of a WCD system according toembodiments.

FIG. 11B shows how the components of FIG. 11A may be worn by a patient.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As has been mentioned, the present description is about Wearable CardiacDefibrillator (WCD) systems, storage media storing programs, andmethods. Embodiments are now described in more detail.

A Wearable Cardiac Defibrillator (WCD) system made according toembodiments has a number of components. These components can be providedseparately as modules that can be interconnected, or can be combinedwith other components, etc.

A component of a WCD system can be a support structure, which isconfigured to be worn by the patient. The support structure can be anystructure suitable for wearing, such as a harness, a vest, ahalf-vest—for example over the left side of the torso that positionselectrodes on opposite sides of the heart, one or more belts that areconfigured to be worn horizontally or possibly vertically over ashoulder, another garment, and so on. The support structure can beimplemented in a single component, or multiple components. For example,a support structure may have a top component resting on the shoulders,for ensuring that the defibrillation electrodes will be in the rightplace for defibrillating, and a bottom component resting on the hips,for carrying the bulk of the weight of the defibrillator. A singlecomponent embodiment could be with a belt around at least the torso.Other embodiments could use an adhesive structure or another way forattaching to the patient, without encircling any part of the body. Therecan be other examples.

FIG. 1 depicts components of a WCD system made according to embodiments,as it might be worn by a person 182. A person such as person 182 mayalso be referred to as patient 182, wearer 182 since he or she wears theWCD system.

The components of the WCD system of FIG. 1 include a generic supportstructure 170 shown relative to the body of patient 182, and thus alsorelative to his or her heart 185. Structure 170 could be a harness, avest, a half-vest, one or more belts, or a garment, etc., as per theabove. Structure 170 could be implemented in a single component, ormultiple components, and so on. Structure 170 is wearable by patient182, but the manner of wearing it is not depicted, as structure 170 isdepicted only generically in FIG. 1. Structure 170 can be designed to beworn under the clothes of patient 182, and can be shaped and sized toeffectively remain hidden. This can be accomplished by thin materials,design principles that avoid often-exposed areas of a patient's anatomy(such as the neck, upper chest or lower arms), and/or providing anextensive range of sizes and/or adjustability.

A wearable cardiac defibrillator (WCD) system is configured todefibrillate a patient who is wearing it, by delivering electricalcharge to the patient's body in the form of an electric shock deliveredin one or more pulses. The components of the WCD system of FIG. 1include a sample external defibrillator 100 made according toembodiments, and sample defibrillation electrodes 104, 108, which arecoupled to external defibrillator 100 via electrode leads 105.Defibrillator 100 and defibrillation electrodes 104, 108 are coupled tosupport structure 170. As such, many of the individual components ofdefibrillator 100 can be therefore coupled to support structure 170.When defibrillation electrodes 104, 108 make good electrical contactwith the body of patient 182, defibrillator 100 can administer, viaelectrodes 104, 108, a brief, strong electric pulse 111 through thebody. Pulse 111, also known as a defibrillation shock or therapy shock,is intended to go through and restart heart 185, in an effort to savethe life of patient 182. Pulse 111 can further include one or morepacing pulses, and so on. A prior art defibrillator typically decideswhether to defibrillate or not based on an electrocardiogram (“ECG”)signal of the patient. However, defibrillator 100 can defibrillate, ornot defibrillate, also based on other inputs.

In the example of FIG. 1, defibrillator 100 includes additionalindividual components, as will be described in more detail later in thisdocument. Briefly, these additional components include a power sourcethat is configured to store an electrical charge, a discharge circuit,and one or more processors. In this example, the components also includea communication module that is integrated with the defibrillation unitin a single electronics module, although the communication module can beprovided in an electronics module of the WCD system separately from thatof the shown defibrillator 100.

In the example of FIG. 1, defibrillator 100 is shown in the front of thepatient. In some embodiments, one or more components of a WCD system arepreferably ergonomically designed to fit the lumbar region of the body.The lumbar region is sometimes referred to as the lower spine, or as anarea of the back in its proximity. A component such as an electronicsmodule may be discreetly worn on the body under a patient's clothes whenplaced in a lumbar pack/carrying case, or carried in a common accessorysuch as a purse or backpack—effectively hiding it in plain sight. Suchan electronics module may include one or more components of the WCDsystem.

The components of the WCD system of FIG. 1 also include an action unit160. Action unit 160 can be a device for patient 182 to exchangeinformation with the WCD system. In particular, action unit 160 may havea user interface that is configured to enable patient 182 to read systemmessages and enter action inputs.

Action unit 160 can be configured to be coupled to support structure170. In some embodiments, action unit 160 is integrated with the one ormore processors in a single electronics module, for example the sameelectronics module that includes defibrillator 100. In some embodiments,action unit 160 is electrically coupled with the module of defibrillator100 via a cable, which can be a permanent cable or a USB or Firewireconnection.

For use, patient 182 may reach into their clothes to access action unit160. In embodiments where a cable is used, patient 182 may bring actionunit 160 to a comfortable position for reading the system messages andentering the action inputs. Accordingly, patient 182 can access andcontrol various functions of the WCD system via action unit 160.

A problem with this arrangement, however, is that other people who cansee action unit 160 might become curious, or even apprehensive.According to embodiments, some of the WCD system functions that can becontrolled by access unit 160 can instead be controlled by a mobilecommunication device 110, redundantly or not.

In embodiments, then, patient 182 carries mobile communication device110 on their person for typically much of the day. Patient 182 may carrydevice 110 in a pocket, in a special holder, or even wear it on theirwrist. Patient 182 may use device 110 to communicate with the WCDsystem, which is why patient 182 may also be referred to as user 182.Mobile communication device 110 has a user interface that is configuredto enable patient 182 to enter inputs that in this document are oftencalled wireless inputs. Wireless communication links may be establishedand used in embodiments, for exchanging data, voice, etc. A wirelesscommunication link is also sometimes referred to as “comlink”.

A mobile communication device such as device 110 can be a custom-madedevice that is part of the WCD system. If made to look substantiallylike a common, commercially available mobile communication device, itmight help preserve the privacy of patient 182 as to the fact that he orshe is wearing a medical device, and thus also help preserve theirdignity. In making such a custom-made device 110 appear like acommercially available mobile communication device, care should be takento not use others' intellectual property rights without theirpermission.

Alternately, a mobile communication device such as device 110 can be awireless telephone, a smartphone, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), apersonal electronic device, a pager, a laptop computer, a tablet, ane-reader, and so on. It can have an app made according to embodiments,so as to perform various functions as described. In such embodiments,mobile communication device 110 can communicate with a wireless serviceprovider network (not shown) via a remote comlink (not shown). Forpurposes of this document, a “remote comlink” means a wirelesscommunication link established between devices that are at least 500feet (150 m) away from each other, and typically farther, such as acellular communication link. In such instances, the remote comlink canbe used for a number of other functions, such as dialing an emergencynumber (e.g. 911 in the US), which may also be accessible via the mobilecommunication device directly. In addition, the location of the patientmay be determined by GPS. If the WCD system and the mobile communicationdevice have been paired and one of them knows that it is physicallyclose to the other, GPS information may thus become known andcommunicated to EMS services. The mobile communication device mayprovide a redundant communication path for the data of the WCD system.This redundant communication path might be used as a secondarycommunication path for remote monitoring data if a primary, in-houseinternet path is not available for the WCD system to report. The remotecomlink can also be used by a remote caregiver to provide patient 182with troubleshooting assistance, motivational feedback, etc.

Mobile communication device 110 can thus be configured to establish alocal comlink 171 with the communication module of the WCD system, whichmay be inside the same module as defibrillator 100. If mobilecommunication device 110 is indeed a wireless telephone or otherindependent standalone communication device, a local comlink may beestablished first pursuant to some authentication. Local comlink 171 maybe established by the initiative of mobile communication device 110, thecommunication module, or both. For purposes of this document, a “localcomlink” means a wireless communication link established between devicesthat are at most 50 feet (15 m) away from each other, and typicallycloser, such as when patient 182 is holding device 110. Local comlink171 can be a wireless link. Data may be exchanged via local comlink 171,in either direction, or in both directions. In embodiments, localcomlink 171 uses radio transmission technology that can be broadbandand/or shortwave. Local comlink 171 may use Bluetooth technology, Wi-Fitechnology, Zigbee or other suitable short-range wireless technology.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing individual components of an externaldefibrillator 200, which is made according to embodiments. Theseindividual components can be, for example, those included in the modulethat includes defibrillator 100 of FIG. 1. The components shown in FIG.2 can be provided in a housing 201, which is also known as casing 201.

Defibrillator 200 is intended for a patient who would be wearing the WCDsystem, such as patient 182 of FIG. 1. Defibrillator 200 may furtherinclude a user interface 270, which can be the same as action unit 160.User interface 270 can thus be used by patient 182, or a bystander at ascene where the patient may experience SCA. The bystander may be aperson familiar with patient 182, a stranger, a trained person, etc. Insome scenarios the bystander may be a rescuer, etc.

User interface 270 can be made in a number of ways. User interface 270may include output devices, which can be visual, audible or tactile, forcommunicating to a user. For example, an output device can be a light,or a screen to display what is detected and measured, and provide visualfeedback to a rescuer for their resuscitation attempts, and so on.Another output device can be a speaker, which can be configured to issuevoice prompts, etc. Sounds, images, vibrations, and anything that can beperceived by a user can also be called human perceptible indications.User interface 270 may also include input devices for receiving inputsfrom users. Such input devices may additionally include variouscontrols, such as pushbuttons, keyboards, touchscreens, a microphone,and so on. An input device can be a cancel switch, which is sometimescalled a “live-man” switch, an “I am OK” switch, a “divert therapy”switch, etc. In some embodiments, actuating the cancel switch canprevent the impending delivery of a shock.

The WCD system may optionally include a monitoring device 280. Device280 can be configured to monitor at least one local parameter. A localparameter can be a physiological parameter of patient 182, or aparameter of the WCD system, or a parameter of the environment, as willbe described later in this document. Patient physiological parametersinclude, for example, those physiological parameters that can be of anyhelp in detecting by the wearable defibrillation system whether thepatient is in need of a shock, plus optionally their medical historyand/or event history. Examples of such parameters include the patient'sECG, blood oxygen level, blood flow, blood pressure, blood perfusion,pulsatile change in light transmission or reflection properties ofperfused tissue, heart sounds, heart wall motion, breathing sounds andpulse. Accordingly, the monitoring device could include a perfusionsensor, a pulse oximeter, a Doppler device for detecting blood flow, acuff for detecting blood pressure, an optical sensor, illuminationdetectors and perhaps sources for detecting color change in tissue, amotion sensor, a device that can detect heart wall movement, a soundsensor, a device with a microphone, an SpO2 sensor, and so on. Pulsedetection is taught at least in Physio-Control's U.S. Pat. No.8,135,462, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Inaddition, a person skilled in the art may implement other ways ofperforming pulse detection.

Patient state parameters include recorded aspects of patient 182, suchas motion, posture, whether they have spoken recently plus maybe alsowhat they said, and so on, plus optionally the history of theseparameters. Or, one of these monitoring devices could include a locationsensor such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) location sensor. Such asensor can detect the location, plus a speed can be detected as a rateof change of location over time. Many motion detectors output a motionsignal that is indicative of the motion of the detector, and thus of thepatient's body. Patient state parameters can be very helpful innarrowing down the determination of whether SCA is indeed taking place.

Defibrillator 200 typically includes a defibrillation port 210, such asa socket in housing 201. Defibrillation port 210 includes electricalnodes 214, 218. Leads of defibrillation electrodes 204, 208, such asleads 105 of FIG. 1, can be plugged in defibrillation port 210, so as tomake electrical contact with nodes 214, 218, respectively. Electrodes204, 208 can be electrodes 104, 108. Either way, defibrillation port 210can be used for guiding, via electrodes, to the wearer the electricalcharge that has been stored in energy storage module 250. The electriccharge will be the shock for defibrillation, pacing, and so on.

Defibrillator 200 may optionally also have an ECG port 219 in housing201, for plugging in sensing electrodes 209, which are also known as ECGelectrodes and ECG leads. It is also possible that sensing electrodes209 can be connected continuously to ECG port 219, instead. Sensingelectrodes 209 can help sense an ECG signal, e.g. a 12-lead signal, or asignal from a different number of leads, especially if they make goodelectrical contact with the body of the patient. Sensing electrodes 209can be attached to the inside of support structure 170 for making goodelectrical contact with the patient, similarly as defibrillationelectrodes 204, 208.

Defibrillator 200 also includes a measurement circuit 220. Measurementcircuit 220 receives physiological signals of the patient from ECG port219, if provided. Even if defibrillator 200 lacks ECG port 219,measurement circuit 220 can obtain physiological signals through nodes214, 218 instead, when defibrillation electrodes 204, 208 are attachedto the patient. In these cases, the patient's ECG signal can be sensedas a voltage difference between electrodes 204, 208. Plus, impedancebetween electrodes 204, 208 and/or the connections of ECG port 219 canbe sensed. Sensing the impedance can be useful for detecting, amongother things, whether these electrodes 204, 208 and/or sensingelectrodes 209 are not making good electrical contact with the patient'sbody. These patient physiological signals can be sensed, when available.Measurement circuit 220 can then render or generate information aboutthem as physiological inputs, data, other signals, etc. More strictlyspeaking, the information rendered by measurement circuit 220 is outputfrom it, but this information can be called an input because it isreceived by a subsequent device or functionality as an input.

A WCD system according to embodiments also includes one or moreprocessors, of which defibrillator 200 shows only one processor 230. Theone or more processors may be implemented in any number of ways. Suchways include, by way of example and not of limitation, digital and/oranalog processors such as microprocessors and Digital Signal Processors(DSPs); controllers such as microcontrollers; software running in amachine; programmable circuits such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays(FPGAs), Field-Programmable Analog Arrays (FPAAs), Programmable LogicDevices (PLDs), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), anycombination of one or more of these, and so on.

The one or more processors may be configured to receive the actioninputs that have been entered via the user interface of action unit 160,and the wireless inputs that have been entered via the user interface ofmobile communication device 110. In addition, the one or more processorsmay be configured to perform various functions, for example by causingvarious components to operate in certain ways. In some embodiments, theperformance of these functions can have aspects that are controlled byany received action inputs and wireless inputs.

A number of functions are possible according to embodiments, which theone or more processors can be configured to perform. Some of thesefunctions are described later in this document. Of these functions, afirst function can be to cause the patient to be defibrillated. Thisfirst function can be performed by controlling discharge circuit 255 todischarge the electrical charge stored in power source 240 throughpatient 182, while patient 182 is wearing support structure 170.

In the example of FIG. 2, for this first function processor 230 can beconsidered to have a number of modules. One such module can be adetection module 232. Detection module 232 can include a ventricularfibrillation (“VF”) detector. The patient's sensed ECG from measurementcircuit 220, which can be available as physiological inputs, data, orother signals, may be used by the VF detector to determine whether thepatient is experiencing VF. Detecting VF is useful, because VF resultsin SCA. Detection module 232 can also include a ventricular tachycardia(“VT”) detector, and so on.

Another such module in processor 230 can be an advice module 234, whichgenerates advice for what to do. The advice can be based on outputs ofdetection module 232. There can be many types of advice according toembodiments. In some embodiments, the advice is a shock/no shockdetermination that processor 230 can make, for example via advice module234. The shock/no shock determination can be made by executing a storedShock Advisory Algorithm. A Shock Advisory Algorithm can make a shock/noshock determination from one or more of ECG signals that are capturedaccording to embodiments, and determining whether a shock criterion ismet. The determination can be made from a rhythm analysis of thecaptured ECG signal or otherwise.

In some embodiments, when the decision is to shock, an electrical chargeis delivered to the patient. Delivering the electrical charge is alsoknown as discharging. Shocking can be for defibrillation, pacing, and soon.

Processor 230 can include additional modules, such as other module 236,for other functions. In addition, if internal monitoring device 280 isindeed provided, it may be operated in part by processor 230, etc.

Defibrillator 200 optionally further includes a memory 238, which canwork together with processor 230. Memory 238 may be implemented in anynumber of ways. Such ways include, by way of example and not oflimitation, volatile memories, nonvolatile memories (NVM), read-onlymemories (ROM), random access memories (RAM), magnetic disk storagemedia, optical storage media, smart cards, flash memory devices, anycombination of these, and so on. Memory 238 is thus a non-transitorystorage medium. Memory 238, if provided, can include programs forprocessor 230, which processor 230 may be able to read and execute. Moreparticularly, the programs can include sets of instructions in the formof code, which processor 230 may be able to execute upon reading.Executing is performed by physical manipulations of physical quantities,and may result in the functions, processes, actions and/or methods to beperformed, and/or the processor to cause other devices or components orblocks to perform such functions, processes, actions and/or methods. Theprograms can be operational for the inherent needs of processor 230, andcan also include protocols and ways that decisions can be made by advicemodule 234. In addition, memory 238 can store prompts for the user ofuser interface 270, if this user is a local rescuer. Moreover, memory238 can store data. The data can include patient data, system data andenvironmental data, for example as learned by internal monitoring device280 and outside monitoring device 180. The data can be stored in memory238 before it is transmitted out of defibrillator 200, or stored thereafter it is received by defibrillator 200.

As mentioned previously, defibrillator 200 also includes a power source240. To enable portability of defibrillator 200, power source 240typically includes a battery. Such a battery is typically implemented asa battery pack, which can be rechargeable or not. Sometimes acombination is used of rechargeable and non-rechargeable battery packs.Other embodiments of power source 240 can include an AC power override,for where AC power will be available, an energy storage capacitor, andso on. In some embodiments, power source 240 is controlled by processor230.

Defibrillator 200 additionally includes an energy storage module 250,which can thus be coupled to the support structure of the WCD system.Module 250 is where some electrical energy is stored in the form of anelectrical charge, when preparing it for sudden discharge to administera shock. Module 250 can be charged from power source 240 to the rightamount of energy, as controlled by processor 230. In typicalimplementations, module 250 includes a capacitor 252, which can be asingle capacitor or a system of capacitors, and so on. As describedabove, capacitor 252 can store the energy in the form of electricalcharge, for delivering to the patient.

As mentioned previously, defibrillator 200 moreover includes a dischargecircuit 255. When the decision is to shock, processor 230 can beconfigured to control discharge circuit 255 to discharge through thepatient the electrical charge stored in energy storage module 250. Whenso controlled, circuit 255 can permit the energy stored in module 250 tobe discharged to nodes 214, 218, and from there also to defibrillationelectrodes 204, 208. Circuit 255 can include one or more switches 257.Switches 257 can be made in a number of ways, such as by an H-bridge,and so on. Circuit 255 can also be controlled via user interface 270.

As mentioned previously, defibrillator 200 includes a communicationmodule 290, for establishing one or more wired or wireless communicationlinks with other devices of other entities, such as a remote assistancecenter, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), device 110, and so on. Inother embodiments, the communication module need not be in the samehousing 201 as defibrillator 200. Module 290 may also include anantenna, portions of a processor, and other sub-components as may bedeemed necessary by a person skilled in the art. This way, data andcommands can be communicated via comlinks, such as patient data, eventinformation, therapy attempted, CPR performance, system data,environmental data, and so on.

Defibrillator 200 can optionally include other components. Returning toFIG. 1, in embodiments, one or more of the components of the shown WCDsystem have been customized for patient 182. This customization mayinclude a number of aspects. For instance, support structure 170 can befitted to the body of patient 182. For another instance, baselinephysiological parameters of patient 182 can be measured, such as theheart rate of patient 182 while resting, while walking, motion detectoroutputs while walking, etc. Such baseline physiological parameters canbe used to customize the WCD system, in order to make its diagnoses moreaccurate, since bodies behave differently. For example, such parameterscan be stored in a memory of the WCD system, and so on. A programminginterface can be made according to embodiments, which receives suchmeasured baseline physiological parameters. Such a programming interfacemay input automatically in the WCD system the baseline physiologicalparameters, along with other data.

It will be appreciated that embodiments give patient 182 the option tocontrol the performance of a number of functions of the WCD system viamobile communication device 110, as opposed to action unit 160. Usingdevice 110 will attract less attention in public places where others maybe watching, than using action unit 160. In addition, using device 110will be less distracting to people familiar with patient 182, and thefact that this patient needs to be attending to their WCD system. Assuch, patient 182 will have one less deterrent from exhibiting goodcompliance in actually wearing their WCD system daily.

Embodiments make various allocations as to which of action unit 160 andmobile communication device 110 can affect which functions of theprocessor(s) of the WCD system. In some embodiments there is redundancy,in that one or more functions can be accessed from either action unit160 or mobile communication device 110, meaning aspects of theperformance of these functions can be controlled either by receivedaction inputs or by received wireless inputs. In some embodiments thereis exclusivity, in that one or more functions can be accessed fromeither action unit 160 or mobile communication device 110, but not both.In some embodiments there is redundancy for some functions andexclusivity for others.

The allocations can be made by taking into account the context thatfunctions may be performed in, in terms of criticality and affordedprivacy. For example, there can be a preference that some initializationfunctions that are operated when patient 182 is initially fitted withthe WCD system at the doctor's office be exclusively accessible andcontrollable by action unit 160, and not accessible by mobilecommunication device 110. For another example, there can be a preferencethat functions which patient 182 is expected to perform periodically beaccessible from mobile communication device 110. For some of thesechoices it can be further considered that, in case of an emergency,action unit 160 may be more reliable if it does not need to beseparately powered, or for a wireless network to be operating.

Examples are now described in more detail.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a sample allocation of access of functionsaccording to embodiments. A WCD system, which is not indicatedseparately, has one or more processors 388. Processor(s) 388 areconfigured to perform a defibrillation function 311, which is thefunction of causing the patient to be defibrillated as described above.Processor(s) 388 are further configured to perform at least one secondfunction that is distinct from defibrillation function 311. In theexample of FIG. 3, there is a set 320 of such possible additional secondfunctions, namely functions 321, 322, although more are possible. Samplefunctions are described later in this document.

In FIG. 3, the WCD system also has an action unit 360, which can be asdescribed for action unit 160. Action unit 360 has a user interface 367,which may receive action inputs 368 entered by the patient. When usingthe highly customized action unit 360, the patient may prefer to be in amore private context, which is indicated conceptually by showingcustomized action unit 360 in a gray domain 391. Action inputs 368 mayaffect the functions of set 320. More particularly, an aspect of theperformance of one of the second functions in set 320 can be controlledby received action input 368.

In FIG. 3, the WCD system further cooperates with a mobile communicationdevice 310, which can be as described for mobile communication device110. Mobile communication device 310 has a user interface 317, which mayreceive wireless inputs 318 entered by the patient. When using mobilecommunication device 310, the patient may not mind being in a publicspace, which is indicated conceptually by showing mobile communicationdevice 110 in a clear domain 392. Wireless inputs 318 may affect thefunctions of set 320. More particularly, an aspect of the performance ofone of the second functions in set 320 can be controlled by receivedwireless input 318.

As can be seen, the functions of set 320 can be controlled either byaction inputs 368 of action unit 360, or by wireless inputs 318 ofmobile communication device 310. In another word, these functions can becontrolled redundantly. As such, processor(s) 388 may receive an actioninput 368 and perform second function 321, in which an aspect of theperformance of second function 321 can be controlled by received actioninput 368. Moreover, processor(s) 388 may receive wireless input 318 andsubsequently perform again second function 321, in which the same aspectof the subsequent performance of second function 321 can be controlledby received wireless input 318.

Examples of functions are now described. It should be remembered thateach of these functions may be designated for exclusive access by eitheraction unit 360 or mobile communication device 310, or may be designedfor redundant access by both. Additionally, one or more suitableinterfaces can change these designations according to embodiments for anindividual system, for example customized based on a particular patient.Moreover, a protocol and one or more suitable interfaces can be used todetermine for any time or condition which of action unit 360 and mobilecommunication device 310 is accessing the second function in question.

In some embodiments, the second function includes causing aphysiological parameter of the patient to be measured. This parametercan be the ECG, heart sounds, CO2, etc. In some instances, the patient'scooperation is needed for this parameter to be measured. For example,the patient may need to become substantially motionless, or apply ameasuring implement on his or her body, etc.

FIG. 4 is a diagram of an action unit 460, which can be as action unit360. Action unit 460 has a user interface that includes a touchscreen467. A message on touchscreen 467 requests an action input, namely forthe patient to touch a specific place on touchscreen 467 after he or shehas stopped moving.

In such embodiments, the controlled aspect of the performance of thesecond function, i.e. of the causing of the parameter to be measured,may include a time when the patient signifies that a condition for themeasuring is optimized. In the example of FIG. 4, the time is defined bythe moment the patient touches touchscreen 467 as requested. That timeis when the patient thus signifies that a condition for the measuring isoptimized, for example they have stopped moving as much as possible. Ifthe second function includes causing to be measured a physiologicalparameter of the patient that is not the ECG, the patient could insteadbe signifying that he or she has applied the appropriate measuringimplement on his or her body, etc.

In such embodiments, the controlled aspect of the performance of thesecond function, i.e. of the causing of the parameter to be measured,may include a time when the physiological parameter is measured. Oneexample is again what was described with reference to FIG. 4. Anotherexample can be to touch the screen while no therapy is indicated by acomponent of the WCD system, so as to “snapshot” a symptomatic episode,record more aspects of it, report it, and so on. Such a symptomaticepisode could be further analyzed in addition with extra reporting bythe patient to investigate for any further problems, or to add to theirbaseline of normal occurrences, and so on.

In embodiments where such second functions can be controlledredundantly, the messaging and exchange shown in FIG. 4 could have alsooccurred via an interface of a mobile communication device. After all,the WCD system may suspect activity, or a symptomatic episode may occurwhile the patient is in a context of domain 392, not 391, and reportingvia the mobile communication device may be preferred.

In some embodiments, the second function includes settings of the WCDsystem, such as airplane mode selection, audio preferences such asnon-safety-related audio preferences, etc. For example, the secondfunction may include causing an auditory notification to be provided tothe patient, and the controlled aspect of the performance of the secondfunction may include a sound volume of the auditory notification. Itwill be further recognized that the sound volume may be set as anexplicit setting, or be part of another setting that is of larger scope.An example is now described.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a sample mobile communication device 510, whichcan be as mobile communication device 110. Mobile communication device510 has a user interface that includes a touchscreen 517. A message ontouchscreen 517 requests a wireless input, namely for the patient totouch a specific place on touchscreen 517 for affecting settings of theWCD system. The settings could include a “return to default” setting,which may include a default sound volume setting. Again, in embodimentswhere such second functions can be controlled redundantly, the messagingand exchange shown in FIG. 5 could have also occurred via an interfaceof an action unit.

In some embodiments, the second function includes causingquality-of-life data to be received from the patient, which can beentered by the patient as one or more responses to a survey. In theseembodiments, the controlled aspect of the performance of the secondfunction can include a time that the quality-of-life data is received,which is controlled by when the patient enters the quality-of-life data.

In some embodiments, the second function includes causing condition datato be transmitted to a remote party that is designated as friendly tothe patient. Indeed, as part of a support network to enhance patientcompliance, such condition data can be shared with loved ones. If donevia a mobile communication device that is also commercially available,the condition data can be transmitted via a secure application (“app”).The condition data can be physiological, and also mental or emotional,current or previous, and so on. In these embodiments, the controlledaspect of the performance of the second function may include a time thatthe condition data is transmitted.

In some embodiments, a “snooze” functionality is implemented, which canbe activated prior to temporarily removing the WCD system. In suchcases, the second function may include causing a certain operation to beperformed, and the controlled aspect of the performance of the secondfunction may include pausing the performance of the certain operation ata particular time. The particular time can be when the patient activatesthe snooze functionality. The certain operation may include transmittingdata wirelessly, receiving data wirelessly, performing a diagnosticself-test, etc. As described above, the transmitted data can be WCDsystem data, environment data, patient data, etc.

Returning to FIG. 3, as mentioned previously, functions 321, 322 in set320 are accessible redundantly. In addition to this, some additionalfunctions may be accessible by only one of the action unit and themobile communication device. For example, the one or more processors canbe configured to further receive another one of the action inputs, andanother one of the wireless inputs. The one or more processors can beconfigured to perform a third function that is distinct from the firstfunction of defibrillation and the second functions. An aspect of theperformance of the third function can be controlled by the receivedother action input, but not by the received other wireless input.Examples are now described.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a sample allocation of access of functionsaccording to embodiments. FIG. 6 intentionally has many similaritieswith FIG. 3, and much of the description of elements of FIG. 3 appliesto corresponding elements of FIG. 6. Functions of the WCD system, suchas those described above, can be allocated differently, for instance assecond or third functions described below. Plus, they might berenumbered because words like “second” and “third” are meredifferentiating labels.

In FIG. 6, a WCD system, which is not indicated separately, has one ormore processors 688. Processor(s) 688 are configured to perform a firstdefibrillation function 611, and at least one second function that isdistinct from defibrillation function 611. A set 620 of such possibleadditional second functions is shown, namely functions 621, 622,although more are possible. Processor(s) 688 are further configured toperform at least one third function, which is distinct fromdefibrillation function 611 and from the second functions of set 620. Inthe example of FIG. 6, there is a set 630 of such possible additionalthird functions, namely functions 631, 632, although more are possible.

The WCD system of FIG. 6 also has an action unit 660 that has a userinterface 667. The patient may enter action inputs 668 in user interface667. Action unit 660 is shown in gray domain 391. Action inputs 668 mayaffect the functions of set 620, or set 630. More particularly, anaspect of the performance of one of the second functions or one of thethird functions can be controlled by received action input 668.

As such, processor(s) 688 may receive an action input 668 and performsecond function 621, in which an aspect of the performance of secondfunction 621 can be controlled by received action input 668. Moreover,processor(s) 688 may receive wireless input 618 and subsequently performagain second function 621, in which the same aspect of the subsequentperformance of second function 621 can be controlled by receivedwireless input 618.

The WCD system of FIG. 6 further cooperates with a mobile communicationdevice 610 that has a user interface 617. The patient may enter wirelessinputs 618 in user interface 617. Mobile communication device 610 isshown in clear domain 392. Wireless inputs 618 may affect the functionsof set 620, but not those of set 630. More particularly, an aspect ofthe performance of one of the third functions can be controlled byreceived action input 668, but not by received wireless input 618.

As can be seen, the functions of set 620 can be controlled redundantly,either by action inputs 668, or by wireless inputs 618 of mobilecommunication device 610. However, the functions of set 630 can becontrolled exclusively, by action inputs 668 but not by wireless inputs618. In this context, the use of the word “exclusively” means the lackof control by one of action unit 660 and mobile communication device610. In some embodiments, third functions 631, 632 might be furthercontrollable by other means, and so on.

The devices and/or systems mentioned in this document perform functions,processes and/or methods. These functions, processes and/or methods maybe implemented by one or more devices that include logic circuitry. Sucha device can be alternately called a computer, and so on. It may be astandalone device or computer, such as a general purpose computer, orpart of a device that has one or more additional functions. The logiccircuitry may include a processor and non-transitory computer-readablestorage media, such as memories, of the type described elsewhere in thisdocument. Often, for the sake of convenience only, it is preferred toimplement and describe a program as various interconnected distinctsoftware modules or features. These, along with data are individuallyand also collectively known as software. In some instances, software iscombined with hardware, in a mix called firmware.

Moreover, methods and algorithms are described below. These methods andalgorithms are not necessarily inherently associated with any particularlogic device or other apparatus. Rather, they are advantageouslyimplemented by programs for use by a computing machine, such as ageneral-purpose computer, a special purpose computer, a microprocessor,a processor such as described elsewhere in this document, a WCD system,and so on.

This detailed description includes flowcharts, display images,algorithms, and symbolic representations of program operations within atleast one computer readable medium. An economy is achieved in that asingle set of flowcharts is used to describe both programs, and alsomethods. So, while flowcharts described methods in terms of boxes, theyalso concurrently describe programs.

Methods are now described.

FIG. 7 shows a flowchart 700 for describing methods according toembodiments. Some functions of a WCD system may be controlledredundantly. For example, according to an operation 710, a firstfunction is performed. The first function may be to cause a patient tobe defibrillated, for example by controlling a discharge circuit todischarge a stored electrical charge through the patient, while thepatient is wearing a support structure of a WCD system.

According to another operation 720, an action input may be received.According to another operation 730, a second function that is distinctfrom the first function may be performed. An aspect of the performanceof the second function may be controlled by the action input received atoperation 720.

According to another operation 740, a wireless input may be received.According to another operation 750, the second function of operation 730may be subsequently performed again. The aspect of the subsequentperformance of the second function that was controlled by the actioninput of operation 720 may be controlled by the wireless input ofoperation 740.

Moreover, other functions of the WCD system may optionally be controlledexclusively, meaning not by one of the two functionalities. An exampleof this was functions of set 630. In such embodiments, according toanother, optional operation 760, another action input may be received.According to another, optional operation 770, another wireless input maybe received. And according to another, optional operation 780, a thirdfunction may be performed. The third function can be distinct from thefirst and the second functions. An aspect of the performance of thethird function can be controlled by the other action input received atoperation 760, but not by the other wireless input received at operation770.

Returning to FIG. 6, as mentioned previously, functions 631, 632 in set630 are accessible by action unit 660 exclusively. In addition to this,some additional functions may be accessible by the mobile communicationdevice exclusively. Examples are now described.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a sample allocation of access of functionsaccording to embodiments. FIG. 8 intentionally has many similaritieswith FIGS. 3 and 6, and much of the description of elements of FIGS. 3and 6 applies to corresponding elements of FIG. 8. Functions of the WCDsystem, such as those described above, can be allocated differently, forinstance as second or third or fourth functions described below, and canbe in different combinations.

In FIG. 8, a WCD system, which is not indicated separately, has one ormore processors 888. Processor(s) 888 are configured to perform a firstdefibrillation function 811, and at least one second function that isdistinct from defibrillation function 811. A set 820 of such possibleadditional second functions is shown, namely functions 821, 822,although more are possible. Processor(s) 888 are further configured toperform at least one third function, which is distinct fromdefibrillation function 811 and from the second functions of set 820. Inthe example of FIG. 8, there is a set 830 of such possible additionalthird functions, namely functions 831, 832, although more are possible.Function 841 is optional, and described later.

The WCD system of FIG. 8 further cooperates with a mobile communicationdevice 810 that has a user interface 817. The patient may enter wirelessinputs 818 in user interface 817. Mobile communication device 810 isshown in clear domain 392. Wireless inputs 818 may affect the functionsof set 820, but not necessarily those of set 830. More particularly, anaspect of the performance of one of the second functions can becontrolled by received wireless input 818, but not necessarily an aspectof the performance of one of the third functions.

The WCD system of FIG. 8 also has an action unit 860 that has a userinterface 867. The patient may enter action inputs 868 in user interface867. Action unit 860 is shown in gray domain 391. Action inputs 868 mayaffect the functions of set 830, but not necessarily those of set 820.More particularly, an aspect of the performance of one of the thirdfunctions can be controlled by received action input 868, but notnecessarily an aspect of the performance of one of the second functions.

FIG. 8 shows examples of where processor(s) 888 can be configured toreceive one of the action inputs 868, receive one of the wireless inputs818, and perform a second function 821, in which an aspect of theperformance of second function 821 is controlled by the receivedwireless input but not by the received action input. Processor(s) 888can further be configured to perform a third function 831, in which anaspect of the performance of the third function is controlled by thereceived action input but not by the received wireless input.

Moreover, a fourth function 841 can be accessed redundantly. As such,processor(s) 888 may receive an action input 868 and perform fourthfunction 841, in which an aspect of the performance of fourth function841 can be controlled by received action input 868. Moreover,processor(s) 888 may receive wireless input 818 and subsequently performagain fourth function 841, in which the same aspect of the subsequentperformance of fourth function 841 can be controlled by receivedwireless input 818.

FIG. 9 shows a flowchart 900 for describing methods according toembodiments. Some functions of a WCD system may be controlled partlymutually exclusively.

According to an operation 910, a first function is performed similarlyas was described for operation 710. According to another operation 920,an action input may be received, and according to another operation 930,a wireless input may be received.

According to another operation 940, a second function that is distinctfrom the first function may be performed. An aspect of the performanceof the second function may be controlled by the wireless input receivedat operation 930, but not by the action input received at operation 920.

According to another operation 950, a third function distinct from thefirst and the second functions may be performed. An aspect of theperformance of the third function may be controlled by the action inputreceived at operation 920, but not by the wireless input received atoperation 930.

Moreover, other functions of the WCD system may optionally be controlledredundantly, meaning by either one of the two functionalities. Forexample, according to another, optional operation 960, another actioninput may be received. According to another, optional operation 970, afourth function distinct from the first, the second and the thirdfunctions may be performed. An aspect of the performance of the fourthfunction may be controlled by the other action input received atoperation 960. According to another, optional operation 980, anotherwireless input may be received. According to another, optional operation990, the fourth function of operation 970 may be subsequently performedagain. The aspect of the subsequent performance of the fourth functionthat was controlled by the action input of operation 960 may becontrolled by the other wireless input of operation 980.

In some embodiments, a portion of a WCD system is separable, and carriedby the patient instead of being worn. Examples are now described.

Referring to FIG. 10, a patient 1082 is shown, along with components ofa WCD system. The components include a support structure 1070 that canbe as described for support structure 170. Coupled to support structure1070 are a component 1006, and electrodes 1004, 1008 that are alsoelectrically coupled to component 1006 with leads 1005.

Another component 1007 cooperates with component 1006, and is carried incontainer 1091 that can be a suitcase, a handbag, a backpack, and so on.Component 1007 can thus be carried out of sight. Component 1007 maybecoupled by a wire with component 1006, for example both can beelectronics modules. In some embodiments, component 1006 is adefibrillator. In some embodiments, component 1007 is an action unit.

FIG. 11A shows sample components of a WCD system according toembodiments, and FIG. 11B shows how they can be worn by a patient 1182.The components of FIG. 11A include a support structure that has an upperharness 1170A and a lower harness 1170B. The support structure isconfigured to be worn by patient 1182, in that both upper harness 1170Aand lower harness 1170B are configured to be worn—it would be the sameif the support structure were made from a single harness, belt, etc.

A first electronics module 1141 is configured to be coupled to thesupport structure and, more particularly, to lower harness 1170B. Thecoupling is such that, when the support structure is worn by patient1182, first electronics module 1141 is substantially at a lumbar regionof patient 1182. In some embodiments, first electronics module 1141includes a power source that is configured to store an electricalcharge, as per the above.

The WCD system further includes a second electronics module 1142. Secondelectronics module 1142 is electrically coupled to first electronicsmodule 1141 via a cable 1176. Second electronics module 1142 may includea discharge circuit, as per the above.

Upper harness 1170A has a main body 1172 with a pocket 1173. Secondelectronics module 1142 can be provided in pocket 1173.

In the methods described above, each operation can be performed as anaffirmative step of doing, or causing to happen, what is written thatcan take place. Such doing or causing to happen can be by the wholesystem or device, or just one or more components of it. It will berecognized that the methods and the operations may be implemented in anumber of ways, including using systems, devices and implementationsdescribed above. In addition, the order of operations is not constrainedto what is shown, and different orders may be possible according todifferent embodiments. Examples of such alternate orderings may includeoverlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental,preparatory, supplemental, simultaneous, reverse, or other variantorderings, unless context dictates otherwise. Moreover, in certainembodiments, new operations may be added, or individual operations maybe modified or deleted. The added operations can be, for example, fromwhat is mentioned while primarily describing a different system,apparatus, device or method.

A person skilled in the art will be able to practice the presentinvention in view of this description, which is to be taken as a whole.Details have been included to provide a thorough understanding. In otherinstances, well-known aspects have not been described, in order to notobscure unnecessarily this description. Plus, any reference to any priorart in this description is not, and should not be taken as, anacknowledgement or any form of suggestion that such prior art formsparts of the common general knowledge in any country or any art.

This description includes one or more examples, but this fact does notlimit how the invention may be practiced. Indeed, examples, instances,versions or embodiments of the invention may be practiced according towhat is described, or yet differently, and also in conjunction withother present or future technologies. Other such embodiments includecombinations and sub-combinations of features described herein,including for example, embodiments that are equivalent to the following:providing or applying a feature in a different order than in a describedembodiment; extracting an individual feature from one embodiment andinserting such feature into another embodiment; removing one or morefeatures from an embodiment; or both removing a feature from anembodiment and adding a feature extracted from another embodiment, whileproviding the features incorporated in such combinations andsub-combinations.

In this document, the phrases “constructed to” and/or “configured to”denote one or more actual states of construction and/or configurationthat is fundamentally tied to physical characteristics of the element orfeature preceding these phrases and, as such, reach well beyond merelydescribing an intended use. Any such elements or features can beimplemented in a number of ways, as will be apparent to a person skilledin the art after reviewing the present disclosure, beyond any examplesshown in this document.

Any and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. patentapplications, whether mentioned in this document or in an ApplicationData Sheet (ADS) of this patent application, are hereby incorporated byreference herein, including any priority claims made in thoseapplications and any material incorporated by reference, to the extentsuch subject matter is not inconsistent herewith.

In this description a single reference numeral may be used consistentlyto denote a single aspect, component, or process. Moreover, a furthereffort may have been made in the drafting of this description to choosesimilar though not identical reference numerals to denote versions orembodiments of an aspect, component or process that are the same orpossibly different. Where made, such a further effort was not required,but was nevertheless made gratuitously to accelerate comprehension bythe reader. Even where made in this document, such an effort might nothave been made completely consistently throughout the many versions orembodiments that are made possible by this description. Accordingly, thedescription controls. Any similarity in reference numerals may be usedto confirm a similarity in the text, or even possibly a similarity whereexpress text is absent, but not to confuse aspects where the text or thecontext indicates otherwise.

The claims of this document define certain combinations andsubcombinations of elements, features and steps or operations, which areregarded as novel and non-obvious. Additional claims for other suchcombinations and subcombinations may be presented in this or a relateddocument. These claims are intended to encompass within their scope allchanges and modifications that are within the true spirit and scope ofthe subject matter described herein. The terms used herein, including inthe claims, are generally intended as “open” terms. For example, theterm “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limitedto,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” etc.If a specific number is ascribed to a claim recitation, this number is aminimum but not a maximum unless stated otherwise. For example, where aclaim recites “a” component or “an” item, it means that it can have oneor more of this component or item.

What is claimed is:
 1. A Wearable Cardiac Defibrillator (WCD) systemconfigured to be worn by a patient carrying a mobile communicationdevice, the mobile communication device having a user interfaceconfigured to enable the patient to enter wireless inputs, the WCDsystem comprising: a support structure configured to be worn by thepatient; a power source configured to store an electrical charge; adischarge circuit; a communication module configured to establish alocal comlink with the mobile communication device; an action unithaving a user interface configured to enable the patient to enter actioninputs; and one or more processors configured to: perform a firstfunction of causing the patient to be defibrillated by controlling thedischarge circuit to discharge the stored electrical charge through thepatient while the patient is wearing the support structure, receive oneof the action inputs, perform, responsive to the received one of theaction inputs, an aspect of a second function, the second functiondistinct from the first function, the second function including causinga physiological parameter of the patient to be measured, receive one ofthe wireless inputs, and subsequently perform again the aspect of thesecond function responsive to the received one of the wireless inputs.2. The WCD system of claim 1, in which the mobile communication deviceis part of the WCD system.
 3. The WCD system of claim 1, in which thesecond function includes causing an auditory notification to be providedto the patient, and the performed aspect includes setting a sound volumeof the auditory notification.
 4. The WCD system of claim 1, in which thesecond function includes causing quality-of-life data to be receivedfrom the patient, and the performed aspect includes a time that thequality-of-life data is received.
 5. The WCD system of claim 1, in whichthe second function includes causing condition data to be transmitted toa remote party designated as friendly to the patient, and the performedaspect includes a time that the condition data is transmitted.
 6. TheWCD system of claim 1, in which the second function includes causing acertain operation to be performed, and the performed aspect includespausing the performance of the certain operation at a particular time.7. The WCD system of claim 6, in which the certain operation includesone of transmitting data wirelessly, receiving data wirelessly, andperforming a diagnostic self-test.
 8. The WCD system of claim 1, inwhich the one or more processors are configured to further: receiveanother one of the action inputs, receive another one of the wirelessinputs, and perform a third function distinct from the first and thesecond functions, an aspect of the performance of the third functionbeing controlled by the received other action input but not by thereceived other wireless input.
 9. The WCD system of claim 1, in whichthe one or more processors are coupled by a wire to the action unit. 10.A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing one or moreprograms which, when executed by one or more processors of a WearableCardiac Defibrillator (WCD) system that is configured to be worn by apatient carrying a mobile communication device, the mobile communicationdevice having a user interface configured to enable the patient to enterwireless inputs, the WCD system including a support structure worn bythe patient, a power source storing an electrical charge, a dischargecircuit, a communication module configured to establish a local comlinkwith the mobile communication device, an action unit having a userinterface configured to enable the patient to enter action inputs, theone or more processors result in operations comprising: performing afirst function of causing the patient to be defibrillated by controllingthe discharge circuit to discharge the stored electrical charge throughthe patient while the patient is wearing the support structure;receiving one of the action inputs; performing, responsive to thereceived one of the action inputs, an aspect of a second function, thesecond function distinct from the first function, the second functionincluding causing a physiological parameter of the patient to bemeasured; receiving one of the wireless inputs; and subsequentlyperforming again the aspect of the second function responsive to thereceived one of the wireless inputs.
 11. The medium of claim 10, inwhich the second function includes causing an auditory notification tobe provided to the patient, and the performed aspect includes setting asound volume of the auditory notification.
 12. The medium of claim 10,in which the second function includes causing quality-of-life data to bereceived from the patient, and the performed aspect includes a time thatthe quality-of-life data is received.
 13. The medium of claim 10, inwhich the second function includes causing condition data to betransmitted to a remote party designated as friendly to the patient, andthe performed aspect includes a time that the condition data istransmitted.
 14. The medium of claim 10, in which the second functionincludes causing a certain operation to be performed, and the performedaspect includes pausing the performance of the certain operation at aparticular time.
 15. The medium of claim 14, in which the certainoperation includes one of transmitting data wirelessly, receiving datawirelessly, and performing a diagnostic self-test.
 16. The medium ofclaim 10, in which executing the one or more programs results in theoperations to further comprise: receiving another one of the actioninputs; receiving another one of the wireless inputs; and performing athird function distinct from the first and the second functions, anaspect of the performance of the third function being controlled by thereceived other wireless input but not by the received other actioninput.
 17. The medium of claim 10, in which the one or more processorsare coupled by a wire to the action unit, and the one of the actioninputs is received via the wire.
 18. A method for a Wearable CardiacDefibrillator (WCD) system configured to be worn by a patient carrying amobile communication device, the mobile communication device having auser interface configured to enable the patient to enter wirelessinputs, the WCD system including a support structure worn by thepatient, a power source storing an electrical charge, a dischargecircuit, a communication module establishing a local comlink with themobile communication device, an action unit having a user interfaceconfigured to enable the patient to enter action inputs, and one or moreprocessors, the method comprising: performing a first function ofcausing the patient to be defibrillated by controlling the dischargecircuit to discharge the stored electrical charge through the patientwhile the patient is wearing the support structure; receiving one of theaction inputs; performing, responsive to the received one of the actioninputs, an aspect of a second function, the second function distinctfrom the first function, the second function including causing aphysiological parameter of the patient to be measured; receiving one ofthe wireless inputs; and subsequently performing again the aspect of thesecond function responsive to the received one of the wireless inputs.19. The method of claim 18, in which the second function includescausing an auditory notification to be provided to the patient, and theperformed aspect includes setting a sound volume of the auditorynotification.
 20. The method of claim 18, in which the second functionincludes causing quality-of-life data to be received from the patient,and the performed aspect includes a time that the quality-of-life datais received.
 21. The method of claim 18, in which the second functionincludes causing condition data to be transmitted to a remote partydesignated as friendly to the patient, and the performed aspect includesa time that the condition data is transmitted.
 22. The method of claim18, in which the second function includes causing a certain operation tobe performed, and the performed aspect includes pausing the performanceof the certain operation at a particular time.
 23. The method of claim22, in which the certain operation includes one of transmitting datawirelessly, receiving data wirelessly, and performing a diagnosticself-test.
 24. The method of claim 18, further comprising: receivinganother one of the action inputs; receiving another one of the wirelessinputs; and performing a third function distinct from the first and thesecond functions, an aspect of the performance of the third functionbeing controlled by the received other wireless input but not by thereceived other action input.
 25. The method of claim 18, in which theone or more processors are coupled by a wire to the action unit, and theone of the action inputs is received via the wire.